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Rigobet song of Cameroon who said during that his werey-istic interview that Lookman and osimhen aren't world-class footballers,I hope he don't loss his erection after seeing this.

Eric Chile best coach...

Small buttox dey shake. I guess in the land of the blind the one eyed 👁️ man would be king.

No Victor on the list!

CAF, group stage Best X1

Goalkeeper:
Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt)

Defenders:
Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco),
Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo),
Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso), Yahia Attiat-Allah El Abdi (Morocco)


Midfielders:
Brahim Diaz (Morocco),
Carlos Baleba (Cameroon),
Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)


Forwards:
Riyad Mahrez (Algeria), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast),
Sadio Mané (Senegal

Best coach
Coach: Eric Chelle (Nigeria)

CAF Online



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AFCON 2025: The Best XI of the Group Stage – Featuring Baleba, Mahrez, Mané, and More
Published: Friday, 02 January 2026

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage in Morocco has been an electrifying showcase of talent, with key players like Mohamed El Shenawy, Riyad Mahrez, Sadio Mané, and Amad Diallo standing out as match-winners for their respective teams. From El Shenawy’s commanding presence in goal to Mahrez’s leadership in attack, these players have proven their worth on the continental stage. The following Best XI celebrates the most consistent, impactful, and influential performers of the group stage – individuals whose performances have set the tone for the knockout rounds.

Goalkeeper: Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt)

At 36 years old, Mohamed El Shenawy has shown that age is no obstacle to excellence. The Egyptian captain played a crucial role in guiding his team through a challenging group stage with remarkable composure and skill. His commanding presence on the line, authority in the air, and impeccable positioning made him a pillar for Egypt, often preventing opposition from scoring in high-pressure moments. El Shenawy’s leadership and experience were invaluable, reminding everyone that in a tournament like the Africa Cup of Nations, an experienced goalkeeper can make all the difference.



Defenders: Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco), Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo), Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso), Yahia Attiat-Allah El Abdi (Morocco)

• Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco): Playing on the right side of defense, Mazraoui reaffirmed his status as one of the continent’s top fullbacks. His intelligent positioning, technical brilliance, and defensive discipline made him an essential figure in Morocco’s solid backline. But beyond defense, his ability to join the attack with pace and vision was pivotal in helping Morocco control games. Mazraoui’s tactical awareness and influence in building from the back were integral to the team’s success.



• Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo): The DR Congo defender stood tall in the group stage with a blend of physicality and calmness under pressure. Tuanzebe proved to be one of the most reliable defenders, rarely caught out of position and dominant in aerial duels. His ability to read the game and shut down offensive threats before they became dangerous was crucial for his team. His performance reflected both maturity and skill, earning him a spot in the Best XI.



• Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso): As the Burkina Faso captain, Tapsoba was an imposing force in the center of defense. A master of anticipation, he was excellent in one-on-one situations and crucial in building play from the back. Tapsoba’s composed demeanor and sharp decision-making were key to Burkina Faso’s success in tight games. His leadership at the back was exemplary, making him one of the standout defenders of the group stage.



• Yahia Attiat-Allah El Abdi (Morocco): On the left side, El Abdi was the embodiment of consistency. Rarely beaten by opposition wingers, his defensive reliability was matched by his ability to support offensive moves. His tactical discipline ensured Morocco maintained balance in defense while also contributing to their fluid attack. El Abdi’s steady performances allowed Morocco to dominate possession and nullify attacking threats.



Midfielders: Brahim Diaz (Morocco), Carlos Baleba (Cameroon), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)

• Brahim Diaz (Morocco): Brahim Diaz was one of the most exciting players of the group stage. Positioned just behind the strikers, his creativity, vision, and technical ability stood out. His dribbling skills and clever movement constantly disrupted defensive blocks, and he was often the catalyst for Morocco’s attacking play. Diaz’s ability to unlock defenses with his passing and his drive to make things happen made him an indispensable part of the Moroccan midfield.



• Carlos Baleba (Cameroon): The Cameroonian midfielder was a physical and tactical revelation. His powerful runs, tireless work rate, and composure on the ball were standout qualities throughout the group stage. Baleba played a key role in both defensive recovery and offensive transitions, providing balance to the Cameroon midfield. His ability to cover large areas of the pitch, win duels, and break up opposition attacks made him one of the most impactful players in the group stage.



• Ademola Lookman (Nigeria): The Nigerian forward turned midfielder, Lookman was a constant threat with his direct running, creativity, and eye for goal. His versatility allowed him to play both as an attacking midfielder and winger, and his movement off the ball was a nightmare for defenders. Lookman’s intelligence in finding pockets of space and his ability to produce key passes in critical moments made him one of the group stage’s most dangerous players.


Forwards: Riyad Mahrez (Algeria), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast), Sadio Mané (Senegal)

• Riyad Mahrez (Algeria): As Algeria’s captain, Mahrez delivered with masterful playmaking and leadership. His vision, exquisite passing, and composure under pressure made him the central figure in Algeria’s attack. Although more of a playmaker than a traditional winger, Mahrez’s ability to dictate the tempo and produce decisive moments ensured Algeria remained a formidable force in the tournament. Whether it was a key pass or a perfectly executed free-kick, Mahrez’s presence was felt in every match.


• Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast): Diallo was a dynamo for Ivory Coast, using his explosive pace and unpredictability to create chaos in opposition defenses. His ability to take on defenders and produce moments of brilliance in the final third made him a key player for the Ivorian side. Diallo’s flair and creativity injected energy into every attack, making him one of the standout attacking players of the group stage. His dribbling and link-up play were vital to Ivory Coast’s attacking success.



• Sadio Mané (Senegal): Even in the most tightly contested matches, Sadio Mané remained a constant threat. His pressing, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing meant that defenders always had to be alert. Mané’s leadership on the field was clear, as he led by example, often scoring or assisting in crucial moments. His relentless work ethic and ability to make the difference in big moments were key to Senegal’s success, reaffirming why he is considered one of the best African players of his generation.



Coach: Eric Chelle (Nigeria)

Under the guidance of Eric Chelle, the Nigeria national team displayed tactical brilliance and a cohesive team structure. Chelle’s approach was marked by a solid defensive setup, quick transitions, and giving attacking players the freedom to express themselves. His clear vision and consistent choices allowed Nigeria to perform at their best during the group stage, showcasing a balanced style of play. Chelle’s ability to maximize the potential of his squad and build a collective identity was one of the highlights of the group stage.

The Best XI of AFCON 2025’s group stage highlights the diversity and quality of African football. With experienced leaders like El Shenawy and Mahrez, combined with the youthful energy of Diallo and Baleba, these players have set the stage for a thrilling knockout phase. Their performances not only reflect individual brilliance but also the growing strength of African football on the global stage.

robosky02:
Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has been included in the Confederation of African Football, CAF, group stage Best X1 of the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations,

Lookman enhanced his status as one of Africa’s best players with his remarkable performances in Nigeria’s opening two games against Tanzania and Tunisia.

The Atalanta winger has so far registered two goals and two assists in Morocco.


DAIlLY POST recalls Lookman was named in the Team of the Tournament at the previous AFCON hosted by Cote d’Ivoire.

Hosts Morocco have two representatives – Noussair Mazraoui and Brahim Diaz – in the team.


Sadio Mané (Senegal), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast) and Riyad Mahrez (Algeria) are the other top stars who made the selection.

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle was named the group stage best coach



Mynd44 mukina2 honeric01
https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/02/afcon-2025-lookman-named-in-group-stage-x1-chelle-best-coach/

Amad as number 9, person wey no dey start for man u game, nawa o, rubbish listing

Sonnobax15:

Rigobet song of Cameroon who said during that his werey-istic interview that Lookman and osimhen aren't world-class footballers,I hope he don't loss his erection after seeing this.

Rigobet song was just a local hero. Who is he to talk ? is he on Mo Salah level or Samuel Eto O level. Even chatgpt doesn't know who he was, it took me to a musician who sang a song called Rigobet Song. I checked for Samuel Eto chatgpt found Samuel Eto'o Fils . When you are known , you are known

JibolaUsman:
Rigobet song was just a local hero. Who is he to talk ? is he on Mo Salah level or Samuel Eto O level. Even chatgpt doesn't know who he was, it took me to a musician who sang a song called Rigobet Song. I checked for Samuel Eto chatgpt found Samuel Eto'o Fils . When you are known , you are known

Baba forget wetin rigobet song talk about our players for now...


But if we see truth make we dey talk and not let us dey make emotional outbursts like this come make person dey look like they no know wetin them dey talk.

Truth is rigobet song is one of the greatest and best defenders to ever emerge from Africa. Yes he is on the same level with eto and salah. Maybe a bit less recognized because defenders generally aren't as respected as strikers. But you can't take anything away from song.

Dude was good and one of the greats. If you don't know him that's on you!

Somebody should help us inform that Primate wey predicted say Lookman will be a disaster in Afcon that Lookman has disappointed him o.

brain54:
Baba forget wetin rigobet song talk about our players for now...


But if we see truth make we dey talk and not let us dey make emotional outbursts like this come make person dey look like they no know wetin them dey talk.

Truth is rigobet song is one of the greatest and best defenders to ever emerge from Africa. Yes he is on the same level with eto and salah. Maybe a bit less recognized because defenders generally aren't as respected as strikers. But you can't take anything away from song.

Dude was good and one of the greats. If you don't know him that's on you!

Off course I know him. The guy with the white band on his head with dreadlocks. Check up Paolo Maldini and he even more recognized than Song. I just typed " Keshi " and it said " you mean Stephen Keshi " in one second flat. Rigobet Song was very average in Europe that's why Chatgpt cannot recognize him. Let me try Okwaraji.... It took ten seconds to get Samuel Okwaraji . Chatgpt thought Rigobet Song was a Song !

JibolaUsman:
Off course I know him. The guy with the white band on his head with dreadlocks. Check up Paolo Maldini and he even more recognized than Song. I just typed " Keshi " and it said " you mean Stephen Keshi " in one second flat. Rigobet Song was very average in Europe that's why Chatgpt cannot recognize him. Let me try Okwaraji.... It took ten seconds to get Samuel Okwaraji . Chatgpt thought Rigobet Song was a Song !

You are spelling the name wrong that's why...

They are great players and there are greater players. In reference to your mention of maldini. Maldini is one of the greatest defenders in the game of all time with a FIFA world best award.

Rigobet song wasn't just an average defender. One of the best from Africa. He payed his dues!

brain54:
You are spelling the name wrong that's why...

Ooops I did spell it wrong but even then chatgpt is lying so much emphasis on the music and not the player on like other searches I've done first time I've seen Chatgpt go off point. Maybe there isn't much to the player and Chatgpt knows it

But Primate Ayodele said he is bad luck to the team

Abeg o no go lose focus o. Senegal were high flying as defending champions last AFCON winning all their group stage matches only to crash out at the knockout stage to Cote D'Ivoire that barely qualified as one of the best losers. That will never be our portion by God's grace but our players need to focus especially the defensive players

JibolaUsman:
Ooops I did spell it wrong but even then chatgpt is lying so much emphasis on the music and not the player on like other searches I've done first time I've seen Chatgpt go off point. Maybe there isn't much to the player and Chatgpt knows it

He played in France, Italy, England...

Liverpool and West Ham. Played in Germany and turkey.

African cup of nations and Olympic gold medal.

Played in 4 world cups!

ednut1:
But Primate Ayodele said he is bad luck to the team

It's not yet over...

xxxxxxx

Can you see life? Can anything good come out of Nazareth? These are the people we condemn here at home. A prophet even said Lookman will caused us a disgrace . The rejected stones have become corner stones.

brain54:
Baba forget wetin rigobet song talk about our players for now...


But if we see truth make we dey talk and not let us dey make emotional outbursts like this come make person dey look like they no know wetin them dey talk.

Truth is rigobet song is one of the greatest and best defenders to ever emerge from Africa. Yes he is on the same level with eto and salah. Maybe a bit less recognized because defenders generally aren't as respected as strikers. But you can't take anything away from song.

Dude was good and one of the greats. If you don't know him that's on you!

Song was great, but I wouldn't put him in my starting xi for all time African footballers. He won't even be on the bench sub.

manuelkel:
Song was great, but I wouldn't put him in my starting xi for all time African footballers. He won't even be on the bench sub.

Okay, that's your opinion...

You are entitled to it. Same as his opinion that osimeh and lookman aren't up there!

brain54:
Okay, that's your opinion...

You are entitled to it. Same as his opinion that osimeh and lookman aren't up there!

There are many great defenders from Africa that are far greater than song. He can't be in African best 11 of all time, except it is not a genuine list. He was only good at indomitable lions, he was never a great player in Europe.

Where is that Bet9ja Primate and his utterance about Ademola Lookman?

brain54:
Okay, that's your opinion...

You are entitled to it. Same as his opinion that osimeh and lookman aren't up there!

They should do better then.

manuelkel:
They should do better then.

Sure, every player ought to strive and do better...

Even the greatest, Messi and Ronaldo keep trying to improve and get better.

Always room for improvements!

Sonnobax15:

Rigobet song of Cameroon who said during that his werey-istic interview that Lookman and osimhen aren't world-class footballers,I hope he don't loss his erection after seeing this.

Making the list doesn't make one world class player, aside Mane and Mahrez are the players on the list are all average players.

All these children of darkness. Dem no go wait make tournament go front first?


Dem don dey cast subtle spells on our fifu o...

We need odumeje to give dem smack down....

Perfect selection based on what I have seen from the group stages...!

brain54:
Eric Chile best coach...

Small buttox dey shake. I guess in the land of the blind the one eyed 👁️ man would be king.

No Victor on the list!

He is the best so far based on the performance of his team...!

No sentiments.

uniquetechng:
Making the list doesn't make one world class player, aside Mane and Mahrez are the players on the list are all average players.

Really?!!

Amad is average?!! Lookmam average?!! Diaz average?!!


Just admit that you don't watch football on a regular... We will understand.

No need embarrassing yourself here.

JibolaUsman:
Ooops I did spell it wrong but even then chatgpt is lying so much emphasis on the music and not the player on like other searches I've done first time I've seen Chatgpt go off point. Maybe there isn't much to the player and Chatgpt knows it

He is correcting you but you are still arguing, Rigobert not Rigobet.

He played for Liverpool, West Ham, Koln in Germany and Lens in France, one of the finest and most reliable defenders to ever come out of Africa.

Angelfrost:
He is the best so far based on the performance of his team...!

No sentiments.

Based on team performance...

Ok. We would accept that!

Powerbandooo:
Amad as number 9, person wey no dey start for man u game, nawa o, rubbish listing

Amad Diallo can't be benched at United currently... The team is even suffering his absence.

Una dey watch ball for this Nairaland?!!

Omo! See comments na.

brain54:
Eric Chile best coach...

Small buttox dey shake. I guess in the land of the blind the one eyed 👁️ man would be king.

No Victor on the list!

What do you mean small buttox dey shake

Nigeria and Algeria are the only team that won all their 3 group games and Nigeria scores 8 in the process.